An alternative numerical approach for full scale characterisation for riveted joint design

This paper describes a pure numerical methodology (FE database) to improve the representativeness of joint equivalent models for airframe crashworthiness. This method is based on material constitutive models and failure criterion in accurate 3D FE simulations. The interest of FE simulations is to define the dynamic strength of many types of riveted joints with a reduced cost compared to a pure experimental way. The FE database method is carried out on elementary riveted joints to predict and to analyse: first the post-riveting initial strain and stress state, and second several kinds of joint failure (e.g., crack propagation, rivet shearing or pull-out). The aim of the first step is to start the mechanical strength simulations with a correct deformed shape and post-riveting state. The responses of 3D riveted joint simulations can then be considered as reference and be used to optimise the mechanical properties of equivalent joint elements. A new equivalent joint element is developed to improve the representativeness of an airframe crash simulation.